'Triangles'

I have a good friend who reads and reviews Young Adult fantasy/fiction, and I have wanted to ask her if she has read any novels written by Ellen Hopkins.  Ms. Hopkins has written the very popular YA books, Crank, Glass, et al.  Although I haven't read them, I will do so very soon because I just finished reading her new adult novel, 'Triangles'.


This book isn't for kids.  


Written in verse, I was rather hesitant about reading it; I've never been a fan of stories written in poetic verse or a letter format (re:  'The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society').  But once I took a deep breath, shoved aside my misgivings, and opened the book, I easily fell into the rhythm of the first chapter.


'Triangles' tells the story of three female friends:  Marissa, a woman with a gay son, a terminally ill daughter, and married to an emotionally-distant man.  Her life, it's safe to say, is filled with stress and challenges.  Andrea, her sister, is divorced and a single mother.  She has had relationships, but is now celibate.  And then there is Holly.  Holly is married to a loving man and together, they are raising three children.  But, filled with regret, she rushes into extra-marital affairs, disguising them in her attempt at writing erotic fiction.


This novel is not your typical 'Chick Lit'; not 'cutesy' and clever.  It is full of pain, heartache, joy, and remorse.  And a lot of sex.  Ms. Hopkins has written a very real story, one that captured my attention and didn't let it go until the heartbreaking end.


There's something for everyone in this story; things to which most of us can relate.


So, for my friend, and for all of you who enjoy Ms. Hopkin's YA fiction, take a step up and read her newest book. It's so very well worth it.